Though I am no expert, I know failing proficiencies when I see them

Guest Opinion by Carol Wilson, on the proposed salary increase for State Superintendent of Education Eric Mackey:

Though I am no expert, I know failing proficiencies when I see them and I know bloated government salaries that are tied to failing proficiencies when I see them. 

A victory lap was recently taken by those who feigned that ninety-one percent of third graders could "read", all the while knowing that the standards for a passing grade had been lowered and knowing that approximately fourteen percent of third graders were falling through the cracks, in the "bubble" or left behind - even though these students have received budget-busting additional reading help including specialized reading coaches, additional classes and "summer school" to catch up.

It seems as if the standards will continue to be low in order for students to simply be passed through the public school system.

This tragic system of low standards sets students up for failure, confusion, frustration, embarrassment and inadequate preparation for not only their fourth grade workload but maybe for every grade thereafter. For if you cannot read, I leave the conclusion to you the reader. 

Respectfully, to whoever sits in the position of State Superintendent, for this is not personal, the responsibility is yours to ensure that Alabama students are not left behind, no matter whether in the "bubble" or "falling through the cracks".

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